22 Anlieferung/ Entnahme Collecting Entsorgung Capturing and labelling Cleaning Monitoring Constant documentation Packaging and sterilisation • Collection • Intermediate storage • Transportation • Rinsing • Cleaning • Drying • Disinfection • Visual inspection • Functional check • repair • technical/functional safety • Waste disposal • Container • Blister/Bag • Sealing • Steam sterilisation • Approval • Sterile goods store • Ward storage • Storability Transportation and storage Reusable Peha®-instrument Single-use It's about more than just disposal To accurately assess the environmental impact of single-use and reusable products, one must closely examine the entire life cycle of these items. Factors such as production, transportation, the type of materials used, and the methods of reprocessing must be considered. While reusable products have the potential to generate less waste in the long run, their production and cleaning processes may require substantial energy and chemicals for reprocessing potentially offsetting the benefits. Especially the high consumption of water resources must be taken into account when assessing the environmental impact of reusable items [1]. From throwaway economy to circular economy Instead of complete transition to reusable products, a viable way forward may be to make single-use items more environmentally friendly, for example by using recycled, bio-based, or biodegradable materials. Contaminated waste, regardless of whether it originates from single-use or reusable products, must be disposed of through specialised treatment methods such as Patient safety and user safety are paramount considerations in the healthcare sector. Single-use products are typically associated with reduced risks of cross-contamination, as they are designed for one-time use and are disposed of after each patient encounter. This reduces the chances of infection transmission, safeguarding the well-being of patients as well as staff in healthcare facilities. Reusable products, on the other hand, require proper cleaning and sterilisation processes to maintain their integrity, which can be more time-consuming and prone to errors. Any compromise in cleaning protocols could pose a threat to patient safety. At first glance, single-use products in the healthcare sector may appear detrimental to the environment due to their disposable nature. The immediate disposal of these items generates waste contributing to resource depletion. However, a deeper analysis is necessary to fully understand their overall environmental impact and explore potential sustainable alternatives. The green equation Single-use and reusable products In the healthcare sector, the choice between single-use and reusable products is a topic of ongoing debate, particularly when considering their environmental impact. Both types of products have their benefits and drawbacks, and hospitals must carefully consider various factors before making an informed decision. HARTMANN disposable instruments compared to the process of reprocessing of reusable instruments Usage of the sterile instrument Disposal PRACTICE STEEL
RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy NDU5MjM=